MosBuild Magazine #15 EN

CONTENTS |

PANORAMA

25 shades OF WHITE

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PEOPLE

Architect Richard Meier

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PROJECTS

42 La Palma Residence (Mexico) 50 Apartment Interior in Saint Germain, Paris (France) 56 Castle in Piedmont (Italy)

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DESIGNERS

80 Setsu & Shinobu Ito 81 Pietro Gaeta 82 Sandro Santantonio 84 Lorenzo Palmeri 85 Hisakazu Shimizu

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Eco-quality label!

Part of

3rd International Eco-Awards for building and finishing materials*

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Awards Ecology Energy Efficiency

* For building and finishing materials producers

For more information visit website

www.e3awards.ru

CONTENTS |

ARTICLES

Trends Innovation Technology Awards Events

INNOVATIONS IN CONSTRUCTION 8 Cool Concept 24 Coloured Metals 30 Facade Panels 34 Zaha Hadid in Moscow 38 Japanese Technology TRENDS 68 Bright and Beautiful 72 Let's Colour 76 Festive interiors 78 Snow & Ice

INTERNATIONAL AWARDS & EXHIBITIONS 63 IF Product Design Award

88 EVENTS CALENDAR

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| EDITOR'S WELCOME

New Year's in a White Home

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White isn't just a neutral colour.

It is so pure and quiet. Bold and conspicuous and yet so inconspicuous as well.

Steve Jobs

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t would be hard to imagine the world of architecture without those famous masters who put the colour white at the centre of their work. Yet this prompts the question: what does white signify for these architects and designers and what effect does it have on observers, and creative personalities in particular? How can we discern the many shades of white and discover the possibilities this magical colour unlocks in creative projects?

A white surface, whether interior or exterior, always looks bright and fresh. It responds to changes in the surrounding space, the presence of other colours, and lighting. White amplifies space, suffuses a room with light and emphasises shade. Interior designers take advantage of these unique qualities, creating designs replete with unique effects and hues. White is also ageless: today, as in the past, white looks novel and current, forging a bright link between modernity and yesteryear.

White is not just a stylish colour, but an ideal background. It highlights colours, finishes and decor elements like no other shade. Coloured metals and bold accents look especially striking against white.

In the run-up to Christmas and the New Year, snow-white accessories take on special significance. Lights, festive toys and upholstery made from variously textured materials such as fabrics, wool, paper and glass all reflect the colour and mood of the season.

Season’s greetings from MosBuild! We wish you a Christmas full of warmth and joy, and a bright and happy New Year.

Managing Editor Ruzanna Sarkisova

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#15 / DECEMBER 2014 FEBRUARY 2015 Founder: ITE Group plc.

Publisher: The ITE Group Contact Details: ITE LLC Moscow, 129164, Moscow, Zubarev per., 15, p. 1 Tel.: +7 (495) 935-73-50 +7 (495) 788-55-85 Fax: +7 (495) 935–73–51 Web-site: www.mosbuild.com Feedback & Advertising Enquiries: mbsite@ite-expo.ru Distribution: more than 370 000 industry professionals

Cover photo: Hôtel de Glace (Canada)

ARCHITECTURE | TRENDS

Cool Concept Humans have been drawn to ice and snow since time immemorial.

Ancient Chinese tomes contain the first mention of ice being used for building. The first architectural structure in Russia to be built from ice is believed to be Anna of Russia's "Ice Palace" in 1740. Today, recent changes in climate and predictions of further upheaval have given rise to a new trend — extreme architecture made from snow and ice.

Modern technologies mean that these structures can serve as accommodation and even be located in warmer climates, which would have been unthinkable in the past.

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CONCEPT |

1 1. Sorrisniva Iglo (Norway) The name of this resort comes from "igloo", the winter dwelling of the Eskimos, who are snow construction experts. The hotel is built completely from ice, making it a true architectural wonder.

This place is rightly considered the best spot in the world to see the Northern Lights in all their pristine beauty. The area is also home to an active scientific research centre.

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ARCHITECTURE | TRENDS

2 2. H么tel de Glace (Canada) Every winter since 2001, 500 tonnes of ice and 15 tonnes of snow have been amassed in this Canadian village outside Quebec. These building materials are essential for the construction of the H么tel de Glace. The hotel's interior is startlingly beautiful, featuring carved walls, columns, arches, candelabras and chandeliers. In addition to guest rooms, the hotel boasts an ice bar, caf茅, chapel, ice sculpture gallery, cinema, ice rink and museum dedicated to Eskimo culture.

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3. Ice Village (Japan) This village made of ice in the mountains of Hokkaido is Japan's contribution to global ice architecture.

Located in the village of Shimukappu, Ice Village is a complex of guest houses, bars and chapels. It is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

CONCEPT |

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ARCHITECTURE | TRENDS

4 4. Icehotel (Sweden) The Jukkasjarvi ice hotel began as little more than a hut made from lumps of ice. It hosted a majestic exhibition of ice art, earning the name Arctic Hall.

Now the concept hotel is a temporary resort that is painstakingly rebuilt every year from December to April. 30,000 tonnes of pure snow are used to create the exclusive interiors developed by various designers from around the globe.

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5. LumiLinna SnowCastle (Finland) LumiLinna SnowCastle is Kemi's main tourist attraction. Visitors to the hotel do not need to stay overnight — they can simply visit the hotel's restaurant or park — but for ice aficionados the hotel offers rooms outfitted with ice furniture and special sleeping bags.

CONCEPT |

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6. Ice Church (Germany) The first ice church in Philippsreut (Bavaria) was built back in 1910 when, after a heavy snowfall, the mountain village was cut off from the rest of the world. The village did not have a church of its own and the authorities had refused to build one, which is why the villagers decided to build one themselves from the most abundant resources — snow and ice.

1400 cubic metres of ice and snow were used in the church's construction.

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ARCHITECTURE | PEOPLE

White Architecture Open, transparent, filled with light, rational – this is how legendary architect Richard Meier characterises his own works.

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RICHARD MEIER |

Richard Meier

Спортивно-развлекательный комплекс в р-не Шеньчжэнь (Китай)

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I believe in architecture. Architecture is the mother of the arts. I like to believe that architecture connects the present with the past and the tangible with the intangible.

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ARCHITECTURE | PEOPLE

M M g g Museum of Contemporary Art in Barcelona (Spain) g The Atheneum in New Harmony, Indiana (USA) j Architect Richard Meier j j OCT Shenzhen Clubhouse (China)

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eier began his professional journey by emulating Le Corbusier in the vein of romantic modernism. His early works aspired to maximum simplicity, openness and lightness of construction. This aspiration is demonstrated best in Meier’s use of the colour white, which has become his trademark. The lion’s share of his projects feature finishes using lighthued panels that transform buildings into harmonious components of the environs in which they stand.

In 1963 Meier founded his own architectural firm, which continues to work on a broad spectrum of civic and commercial commissions to this day. The first significant works to demonstrate Meier’s inimitable style were commissioned in the USA: the Atheneum in New Harmony, the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Des Moines Art Center. In 1984 at the age of 49, Meier became the youngest ever winner of the Pritzker Prize.

His most iconic work to date is the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art. Clad in enamelled-steel panels, the groundbreaking building strikes a balance between the city’s Gothic and contemporary architecture.

RICHARD MEIER |

The entrance to the glass gallery lies beneath a sculpturesque protrusion. Inside, visitors are greeted by the “rising” hall in the form of a triple-height ramp, which serves as the main exhibition space. From here visitors can move on to one of six spacious lofts located on the upper floors.

The wing adjoining the east side of the museum contains an additional gallery and museum offices.

Light streams into the main hall through the glass southern wall and the skylight of the upper loft, while the museum’s interior

is protected from the sun’s harsher rays by external horizontal blinds, wall-mounted screens and the atrium ramp itself.

Meier’s white and transparent architecture is highly favoured in China as well. On an artificial island on the southern edge of Shenzhen, the OCT Shenzhen Clubhouse is composed of two buildings totalling 11,000 square metres.

The main wedge-shaped building fans out along the eastern edge of the island, connecting interior spaces via a covered

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ARCHITECTURE | PEOPLE

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RICHARD MEIER |

i g Jesolo Lido Resort in Venice (Italy)

�

White is the most wonderful colour because within it you can see all the colours of the rainbow. The whiteness of white is never just white; it is almost always transformed by light and that which is changing: the sky, the clouds, the sun and the moon.

walkway. The building contains a restaurant, exhibition space, lounges and events spaces.

The multitude of glass ceiling structures and walkways help saturate the complex’s interior with light.

The second building hosts a fitness centre and swimming pool. The elaborate design flawlessly reconciles the rectangular rooms and pool with the curving, tilted walls of the outer facade.

Richard Meier & Partners Architects completed the Jesolo Lido architectural

Richard Meier ensemble after ten years of work. The final component to be added was the ninestorey block of exclusive apartments right on the beachfront.

The facade of the snow-white building alternates between open and recessed balconies, the latter protected from the sun by horizontal blinds along their perimeter.

The complex is crowned with five twostorey penthouses, each boasting its own outdoor pool. These vertical additions to the monolithic structure result in a more dynamic and evocative silhouette.

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ARCHITECTURE | PEOPLE

Richard Meier & Partners Architects dedicates much of its attention to projects in the private sector, which is also striving to become light, open and transparent.

Villa Gardone in Italy is positioned between Lake Garda and the hillside. Its location on this picturesque shore shaped the openness of the design, which features myriad transparent walls and a veranda encircling the villa. The residence is located perpendicular to the slope, maximising the view of the surrounding area and suffusing the internal space with sunlight throughout the day.

Meier’s largest-scale project to date is undoubtedly the Getty Center in Los Angeles. The complex comprises an art museum, research centre, library, park and tram. Meier’s design is derived from a combination of contrasting forms made from similar materials, resulting in structures that seemingly bleed into each another, creating both a united and diverse construction of cubes, cones, curves and cylinders. gj Villa Gardone in Traina (Italy)

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RICHARD MEIER |

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ARCHITECTURE | PEOPLE One of Meier’s most recent and unorthodox works is the Jubilee Church in Rome. In the 1990s the Vatican launched an initiative to build 50 new churches within Italy, with the last of these coinciding with the celebration of 2000 years since the birth of Christianity. In honour of this event, the building was named the Jubilee Church.

The design showcases Meier’s customary white. The southern 830 square-metre structure is “embraced” by three curved concrete walls representing the Holy Trinity. In contrast to traditional Gothic cathedrals, the Jubilee Church does not contain any stained-glass windows: the sunlight streaming through the transparent glass offers a more apt symbol of God’s divine presence.

The church has been designed to reduce the thermal peak loads inside. The considerable

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heat capacity of the concrete regulates the temperature of the internal space, minimising variations in temperature and increasing energy efficiency. The church walls also contain titanium dioxide to preserve the brilliant white of the facades.

Across the globe, buildings designed

by Richard Meier are currently under construction, affirming the supremacy of his modern and distinctive style.

Sweeping white surfaces, rounded corners, transparent walls and spaces spilling over into each other – these are the hallmarks of Meier’s greatest creations. This architect does not simply employ all the tools in his professional arsenal, but harnesses the ineffable power of light and shade, sky and sun, to raise his works to the sublime.

Richard Meier is one of the New York Five (a group of notable architects that also includes Peter Eisenman, Michael Graves, Charles Gwathmey and John Hejduk) and is the winner of the most prestigious accolades and awards in architecture.

RICHARD MEIER |

i Getty Center in Los Angeles (USA) g → Jubilee Church in Rome (Italy)

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Construction | INNOVATION

Coloured Metals

Coloured metals are widely found in nature and are used extensively in all areas of human activity. They are varied and all around us. However, the question of what methods and materials can be used to enhance the decorative and performance characteristics of metal remains as relevant as ever. Until recently, the use of metal in architecture required professionals to choose between vivacity and longevity, with the latter often winning out. Yet as technology has raced ahead, it is now possible to make metal structures vibrant and brilliant without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. Modern technologies for colouring metal include powder coating, extrusion, ion plasma technology, as well as various applications of holographic effects and light refraction on the metal surface itself.

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Facades Roofing Structures

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METALS |

1. These apartments in Luxembourg and works by local artist SUMO are "dressed" in a shimmering metallic facade made from a unique material – lustrous black extruded metal whose colour changes depending on the time of day. Architectural studio: Metaform Atelier d’Architecture 2. xMetals exclusive finishing materials are aluminium alloy sheets with a holographic effect. Their unique visual attributes emerge when light is reflected off the metallic patterned surface: its appearance changes depending on the vantage point, light level or position of the light source. xMetals offer countless variations of its 18 basic shades..

3. The front facade of Eskenazi Hospital is a field of 7000 angled metal panels linked together to offer observers a different colour scheme from every vantage point.

Architectural studio: Urbana (USA)

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Construction | INNOVATION

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4. This high school in Saint-Denis is a complex of five small buildings, each clad in vibrantly coloured stainless steel panels. The facades are perforated with openings of various sizes, enhancing the building's visual impact and serving as exterior blinds. The undulating folded metal roof completes the building's bright exterior. Architectural studio: Mikou Studio (France) 5. Italian company ITALFIM is one of the leading manufacturers of expanded metal mesh in Europe and offers a wide range of textures and colours for facades, allowing architects to fully realise their creative visions.

6. Titanium zinc is an unbeatably strong and durable material used in the manufacture of roofs and facades. Its many advantages make it an elite architectural material. RHEINZINK offers the COLOR LINE collection for creative designs.

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7. This 100 square-metre residence blurs the boundary between art and architecture.

It features an incredibly bold ensemble of brightly coloured metal structures.

Architectural studio: Stamberg Aferiat + Associates (USA)

METALS |

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8. This orange cube with two large round holes is a design showroom in Lyon. Its orange metal facade is perforated with circles of varying size.

Project leads: Jakob + MacFarlane (France) 9. Squire and Partners completed this private residence in London's Mayfair. The project's pièce de rÊsistance is its contemporary metal facade of gold aluminium leaves in various shades, covering an entire wall of the threestorey house.

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Construction | INNOVATION

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13 10. Otefal specialises in the production of aluminium sheeting, coil coating and aluminium anodising. Dwall, Dwall Iridium, 2-3 Dwall and Mirawall aluminium rolls or sheets offer an impressive selection of alloys, colours and finishes.

11. Alga is a factory with its own extensive production facilities specialising in metal roof and facade systems. Alga uses cutting-edge technologies to produce raised ventilated facades, metal facade panels and facade cassettes.

12. Albes is constantly upgrading its range of products. Galvanised steel is innovatively used in the Grigliato GL-15 suspended ceiling. This extremely strong material has allowed Albes to make the GL-15 more robust in installation and use, retaining the lightness, openness and solidity intrinsic to this type of ceiling.

www.albes.ru, www.al-sp.ru

13. The dynamic architectural impact of this apartment block comes from the combination of materials used in the facades: sheets of aluminium and stainless steel with inserts made from green and mirrored glass.

Architectural studio: Hamonic + Masson (France)

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14. Isopan produces metal roof and wall sandwich panels that provide enhanced insulation. The Isofarm collection includes the following brands: Isovetro is a self-supporting panel with a single metal skin, polyurethane insulation and internal cladding made from glass-reinforced plastic for exposed use; selfsupporting sandwich panel Isocop Granite boasts a double skin metal panel, insulated with polyurethane foam with a tongue-and-groove joint; Isodeck is designed for waterproofed roofs.

15. French architectural studio Palatre & Leclere took a highly creative approach to designing L'ĂŠcole Đœaternelle, painting the facade in bright, rainbow colours

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Construction | INNOVATION

Facade Panels

Composite textiles Fibre cement Ceramic granite Aluminium

Photo: Aitor Ortiz

The latest breakthroughs in science and engineering are today being applied to external cladding solutions, not only defining building exteriors, but setting the tone for entire designs. Leading architects compete to create the most original building facades, and thanks to the variety of innovative materials and technologies on offer, facades are coming to epitomise 21st century architecture.

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FACADE | 1. In 2020 the UEFA European Football Championship will take place in 13 cities across Europe. Spain is presenting a new architectural offering for the unique event – the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, which replaces one of the oldest stadiums in Europe. The project was led by architect César Azkarate. The fish-scale facade is made from glass and supported by a metal framework. By day the stadium will be transparent, by night it will shine like a lighthouse, and on match days it will blaze red and white, the colours of Athletic Bilbao.

2. The new terminal at Pulkovo Airport (Russia) reflects current architectural trends, emphasising weighty forms and the use of materials with natural textures. The project is led by Sir Nicholas Grimshaw (UK).

Photo ©Yuri Molodkovets

3. Developed by the Realit aluminium profile plant, the RW 71HI “warm” window profile range is now even better. The use of a new thermal bridge with enhanced heat transfer resistance and foam insulation between the glass panes and the profile has reduced the heat transfer coefficient to an average of 0.2-0.4 W/m2K. 4. Through-coloured EQUITONE fibre cement panels from Eternit (Belgium) can take on any shape and are ideal for perforation when decorating building facades or interiors. The EQUITONE panels boast a natural concrete texture, matching the latest trends in architecture and facade design.

Temperature distribution within RW 71HI system.

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5. This textile facade for a car park in Cardiff (UK) made from Stamisol FT 381 can change its colour using architectural lighting. The mesh fabric is manufactured from composite materials by the Swiss production unit of French company Serge Ferrari. This innovative material is ideal for finishing curved surfaces, corners and 3D structures.

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6. Architects from ONL have created a unique combination of steel, glass, composite fabric and lighting in the exclusive LOUWMAN (Netherlands) car showroom. The Serge Ferrari Batyline HM Classic range was used in the finish on the walls and ceilings. The material is lightweight and is available in 8 colours with a matt or transparent finish.

7. Aluminstroy's Chameleon range of aluminium composite panels is widely used in contemporary facades. The decorative base paint with PVDF possesses a 3D structure, which reflects light differently depending on the viewing angle and light level.

8. Digital decorative art is an up-andcoming trend in contemporary design. Digital technology has taken the leap from billboards

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Фото © Serge Ferrari

Photo© Serge Ferrari

Construction | INNOVATION

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to facades and interiors. A vivid example of this trend can be seen in the interior panels at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 (UK) – these multimedia partition screens show the life and death of the English oak, the work of multimedia artist Christopher Pearson.

9. Fibre cement panels from NICHIHA (Japan) are an eco-friendly architectural material.

The technological solutions applied in the manufacturing process improve heat conservation by more than 30%. Other advantages include condensation removal and increased durability of load-bearing walls. www.nichiha.ru

on Construction

Construction | INNOVATION

ZAHA HADID IN MOSCOW Project – Dominion Tower Area – 21,995 m2 Architect – Zaha Hadid Interior architectural decor of atrium, production of architectural decor – Arkhitektura Blagopoluchiya Company's chief architect – Aleksey Kobrin Area of fibre-reinforced concrete decor – over 2000 m2 34

FACADE |

Slideshow

k g Atrium design – balconies and staircases i The building is clad in Chameleon aluminium composite panels that change shade based on the light level

The first building in Zaha Hadid's Dominion Tower project has been completed in Moscow. The building's facade is notable both for its offset levels and its shifting colour based on light level, but the most striking feature is undoubtedly the internal architectural decor realised in fibre-reinforced concrete by Arkhitektura Blagopoluchiya.

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Construction | INNOVATION

Slideshow

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Bionic-shaped girders below the atrium ceiling, curving balustrades and landings, transition details on the basement level – the challenge in assembling these highly complex interior elements is equal to assembling a modern jetliner. Each element is inextricably linked to the rest, entailing a construction process that required painstaking precision to fit all the elements and profiles together. It is clear that the fluid contours envisaged by Zaha Hadid have been flawlessly brought to life by Arkhitektura Blagopoluchiya.

FACADE |

1 2 1. Installation of balustrades 2. Model of girder cladding components 3. Installation of connections between balconies and staircases Design documentation, production of atrium architectural decor – Arkhitektura Blagopoluchiya, CEO Andrey Poletayev Design – AB ELISE architectural firm

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Construction | INNOVATION

Japanese TechnologY in the search for pure colour

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KMEW (Japan) facade panels offer a rich variety of colours and textures. But what’s the secret to their exceptional white panels?

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FACADE |

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he defining feature of KMEW fibre cement panels is their outer coating, which unfailingly protects the material’s colour and texture. There are several types of coatings: silicone-acrylic, hydrophilic ceramic and photoceramic.

Ceramic coating stands out among these, as it reliably protects a panel’s colour and texture for a minimum of 40 years.

Hydrophilic ceramic coating facilitates “self-cleaning” when it rains and keeps paint looking pristine for approximately 40 years. Its longevity has been proven both in lab trials and in the real world – in Japan these panels have been in use for over 50 years.

The latest innovation from KMEW is photoceramic coating, which not only creates a self-cleaning facade with vibrant, lasting colour, but also cleans the environment. The photocatalysts in the coating break down the nitric and sulphuric acid contained in exhaust fumes.

In Japan these technologies have seen years of practical application in hospitals, car wing mirrors and subway rails. Now this cutting-edge technology has come to Russia and is suitable for use both in facades and interiors.

White buildings will stay white with the help of this hydrophilic and photoceramic coating, whether they are in rural areas with high levels of pollen, or in the city, where air pollution is very high due to the concentration of exhaust fumes.

About the company:

KMEW, part of Panasonic, is a global leader in the manufacture of fibre cement panels.

The company operates seven production facilities throughout Japan, three of which manufacture products specifically for northern and cold regions such as Russia: the panels produced at these factories are optimised to withstand very cold temperatures. Representing the culmination of unique advances made by Japanese scientists, these special panels are popular in Russia, the USA, Canada and in Japan itself, particularly in Hokkaido, where temperatures fall as low as -40 °C in winter.

“Made in Japan” is a universal indicator of quality, which is why KMEW is proud that all of its products are manufactured in Japan, making these unique panels even more exceptional.

www.kmew.co.jp

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apanese designers believe that combining white with other colours is essential for highlighting its own unique beauty. The play of light and dark is a central theme in contemporary Japanese design, a style that can be aptly named “elegant simplicity”.

There are many different shades of white in the world – if you look at KMEW’s palette of whites you can find warm and cool tones.

In white-coloured panels, texture plays a significant role. The varied relief ensures a unique play of light across the panel surface every time: for example, the new Holm texture possesses gentle shifts between light and shade, creating the feeling of extra volume, while Shutorel panels are notable for their more severe design. The precise lines of light and shade

create pleasant and harmonious shading.

Cancera panels with their plasterwork design offer an uneven texture that creates a 3D effect. An interesting play of light and shadow can be seen in the texture of the Directon panels: the protruding stonework design creates the illusion of many colours while the panel remains monochrome. The most popular texture in Russia is Fiot, better known as “rice paper”. The white panel in this series combines wonderfully with the tree bark texture, lending a hint of lightness and weightlessness to any building.

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Shades OF

White

Residence (Mexico)

PROJECT | INTERIOR

Interior of a medieval castle (Italy)

Apartment (France)

TT

he colour white is all around us, but we often don't realise just how varied it can be, or how many unique shades lie in its deceptive simplicity.

Snow, clouds, salt, pearls, lilies – all white yet all different, each offering its own unique palette of subtle, barely discernible nuances of colour. The spectrum of white is virtually infinite: milk-white, lily-white, the white of ancient columns, dew-white, ghost-white, the white of a fresh sheet of paper – natural variety and the interplay between light and shadow together create a long list of shades ranging from almost blue to palest cream.

White is a universal and neutral colour that never loses its fresh and contemporary appeal, while its apparent colourlessness allows it to complement and enhance any other hue. You cannot mix other colours to make white. It stands apart from the classic spectrum but possesses its own undeniable advantages.

It is the only colour that can amplify a space and compensate for a lack of light. Interiors decorated in white tones feel lighter, fresher and cleaner. The colour is at home in any style, from minimalism to Rococo.

White is not only decoration in itself, but serves as an ideal canvas for any decor elements, showing them off to their best advantage. White makes paint look richer and lines sharper. Variety can be introduced into a white interior through judicious use of textures and materials, whereas creative lighting will unveil a new shade of white on every surface.

It is not surprising that white, which contains all the colours of the rainbow coalesced into a single point, symbolises harmony, balance and serenity. It is an irreplaceable tool, but one that requires a deft touch to uncover all its facets.

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

White of Many Colours In the blink of an eye, all 1200 square metres of this luxurious home begin to change colour

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RESIDENCE |

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

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now-white interiors have been an ongoing trend for several years.

They instantly create an impression of space, light and purity, but can also result in sterile and detached environments that are off-putting to some.

Yet even the humblest interior is dramatically changed with the addition of white.

Architect Miguel Angel Aragonés designed the three-storey La

La Palma Residence (Mexico) Architect: Miguel Angel Aragonés Co-architect: Taller Aragonés Photos: Joe Fletcher

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Palma residence in the Mexican capital, unofficially dubbing it the “House of the Sun”.

Miguel Angel Aragonés: “Mexico is constantly filled with sunlight.

When I received the commission to design this private residence, I thought to myself: why not make this radiant, warm substance, if not part of the architecture, then at least part of the design, a natural component of the space? Sunlight is always present

RESIDENCE |

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

in an interior. The sun is to the architect what the compass is to the navigator. Sunlight stirs our emotions, creating an ineffable atmosphere and sparking a game of light and shadow that utterly transforms the living landscape of any interior.”

The first stage of the project was determining the temporal coordinates of the sun – where it rises, where it sets, on what side of the building it would be located at specific points throughout the day.

The creation of a corresponding timetable allowed Aragonés to design the house as a “container” for light with its own unique characteristics.

The second major element of

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RESIDENCE |

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The concept of a house as a “container for light” and of architecture as “painting with sunlight” were first expressed by the noted Mexican architect Luis Barragán.

k Sofa area g → The project’s designer, inspired by modern technology and art, scientific discoveries and achievements, created this private house that is a blend of off-the-wall geometry and serene finishes. i Geometric staircase

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PROJECT | INTERIOR the design was the colour white, demonstrated in monochrome planes of facades, copious structural cutaways and openings resembling the surface of thick white card that seem poised to soak up all light and colour diffused in the surrounding space.

White is gloriously combined with the warm brown hues of wood used in the terrace, with the azure of the water in the pool, and with the green of the leaves in the nearby trees. Contrast is achieved in the interior using splashes of colour in the form of bold accessories.

A key feature of the residence’s layout is the multitude of transition zones, including the open terrace, the pool area and the inner courtyard with monochrome sculptures. At the same time, the lounge area in the well of the atrium creates the impression of a courtyard, despite it featuring a huge wraparound sofa.

One of the most intriguing solutions employed by the designer is the concealed lighting of the niches, openings and structural components of the building’s framework. In the blink of an eye, all 1200 square metres of this luxurious home begin to change colour, shifting from violet to blue to red, turning this serene interior into a phantasmagoric space.

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RESIDENCE |

i The colour saturation of the space can be changed to suit the owner’s mood. The technical infrastructure of the residence includes a large number of lighting scenarios. g →The bedroom is decorated in the severe and striking style of European hotels. This style is so popular among contemporary interior designers that they have turned it into a fashion trend that shows no signs of slowing down.

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

Beauty

in the Detail

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APARTMENT |

The interior of this apartment in Saint Germain, Paris might leave opponents of neutral tones dazed and confused, for no one could accuse these "white" rooms of lacking character or a sense of fun.

The secret to this captivating design lies in the multitude of details that populate the apartment.

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

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he unconventional interior is the epitome of originality, vivacity and optimism, while the carefully selected furniture and accessories enhance this unique ambience. This is a home you will never want to leave, preferring to simply bask in its beauty and survey it from every possible angle. Even the smallest knick-knacks can transform a home's personality, underscoring its individuality and opulence.

The talented individuals behind this project are from Israeli studio Ando – architect Aziza Oren and designers Anna Epstein and Ety Azougy. A digital technology

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APARTMENT |

g j The dining room is spacious with French windows and quirky pendant lights reminiscent of paper planes or bats. iIn the corridor – black and white marble floor, huge light fixture and black-and-white photographs. → The unique long and narrow galley kitchen. The kitchen cabinets are corrugated, creating a sense of dynamism in the interior

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

g All the hallmarks of a life of glamour are found in the bedroom: four-poster bed, designer lights and original accessories. k i The bathroom offers a gorgeous mosaic floor (also in black and white, naturally) and a pair of mirrors with unusual gold frames.

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APARTMENT |

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studio, Ando was formed in 2011 and has already made a name for itself in the architecture and design worlds thanks to its topnotch team.

The designers chose a black and white colour scheme with hints of brown and gold as the basis for their modern yet classic interior design. The main decorative approach for the apartment centred on contrasting interior elements.

The apartment is populated with many mirrors. Varying in size, shape and frame, they are more

The project designers believe that when creating an interior it is essential to always pay attention to the details that will ultimately form the overall design concept. than functional accessories and clearly play a major role in the overall design. The same can be said for the numerous pictures and photographs that enliven the space and enhance the apartment's artistic impact.

Differing in subject and style but united by their severe frames, the works resemble gallery exhibits arranged and hung in every room in the apartment.

The fireplaces in the living room and dining room signpost the classic approach taken: their conscious elegance stands out

even against the black and white stripes of the carpet.

In finding the perfect balance between the interior's colour scheme and its details, the designers have succeeded in creating a design that is much more than the sum of its many parts. The pair of ripple-backed chairs and rich navy create bright splashes of colour, complementing the undeniable chic glamour of the interior decorated with exquisite taste and a clear love of detail.

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

Comforts Castle

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CASTLE |

RR

emodelling old buildings not originally designed for human habitation and turning them into comfortable dwellings has become a major trend in home design. This route to creating a dream home has gained popularity partly due to the wide range of quirky properties available and the greater opportunities for crafting a bespoke interior.

Most foreign design studios have a wealth of experience in transforming former warehouses, industrial spaces, shops and even churches into modern residences,

kToday similar trullo castles are seen as full-fledged homes with all the mod cons. They possess the same appeal as a conventional villa but with a unique appearance and fascinating construction method. gThe finish in the living room and kitchen fully meets modern standards of comfort.

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PROJECT | INTERIOR

to the extent that residing in this type of property has become a status symbol for the wealthier classes.

This beautiful medieval castle has been refashioned into a holiday home for an advertising agency owner and his wife. The north-west region of Piedmont in Italy offers a perfect retreat for urbanites. The painstakingly restored and remodelled 15th century castle is now a stylish private residence. Built without the use of cement or mortar, the stone structure was lovingly

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renovated with care taken to preserve medieval features such as the conical roof and the single central room.

Interior designer Charlotte Pettersson, staying true to the elite castle style, demonstrates a penchant for white in her design.

In past eras, white walls and furniture denoted an aristocratic lifestyle and were indicators of wealth and elegance.

The kaleidoscopic shades and hues of white are stunningly displayed in the castle interior: ivory, milk, natural cotton and linen, mother

of pearl, snow and cream. By establishing a dialogue between these various shades of white, the design creates a nuanced colour palette that is far from one-note.

Accents of coffee, terracotta and wood are arranged against this light backdrop. Spaces finished in the classic Italian style are complemented by contemporary furniture that preserve the harmony of the interior as a whole.

These combinations create the atmosphere of serene comfort sought – and found – by the new owners of this medieval castle.

CASTLE |

”

The walls of the round trullo castle were built in the 15th century using dry masonry.

The thickness of the walls and size of the windows and doors ensures that the castle is warm in winter and cool in summer.

k The split-level floor and arched niches are the only original architectural features in the castle interior. k g The castle's previous inhabitants would have slept in the wall alcoves separated from the main room by a curtain, or used them for storage. j → The top of the structure holds the keystone without which the building would collapse. Keystones typically display a carved symbol – the hallmark of the master who built the structure.

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EXHIBITION |

MOSBUID 2015

"Farvater Plus"

The most exciting and promising innovations by leading companies at the upcoming MosBuild exhibition at Moscow’s Expocentre 31 March− 3 April and 14−17 April 2015

Farvater Plus recently ran a unique “White Mood from Gllon” offer, which included the Gllon SK088-1W aluminium alloy shower set in ultramodern white. The multifunctional shower sets boast overhead and hand shower, water spout and mode selector.

Tesa, a leading manufacturer of selfadhesive tapes for professionals, offers all the essential materials for painting and protecting surfaces as well as for internal and external repair and restoration work. tesa products guarantee unbeatable results on a variety of surfaces thanks to their special paper base and unique adhesive compounds.

www.farvaterplus.ru

Tesa

www.tesatape.ru

Jotun is a global leader in the manufacture of decorative paints and protective and powder coatings. The company has 36 production facilities and is represented in over 90 countries. Jotun has operated in Russia for over 20 years and in that time its products have been used in the construction of countless ships, industrial and oil and gas facilities and infrastructure projects across the country.

Azbuka Vinila is an official seller of the cutting-edge Durafort wall covering. These vinyl wall coverings and “gypsum vinyl” panels are abrasion resistant and even out wall surfaces, creating a comfortable, soundabsorbent and insulated space.

Jotun

"Azbuka Vinila"

www.jotun.ru

www.abvinyl.ru

Flexible bitumen roof tiles from American company Owens Corning are the best roofing material on the market thanks to their unique features. In 2012 Krona became the exclusive supplier of bitumen roof tiles in the Russian Federation. You can find out more about Owens Corning and its products at its website www.owenscorning.com

Krona

www.owens-corning.ru

MosBuild 2014 Video Report 61

AWARD | DESIGN

IF product design award In 2014 the iF Product Design Award celebrates its 60th anniversary. Since its inception, the award has been a universal symbol of high-quality design and the iF logo has become a globally recognised brand.

In this landmark year, the jury has selected the best examples of industrial design from among 15,000 products from 71 countries.

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1. The AUGUST Smart Lock door locking system delivers security and user friendliness. The device is installed on the inside of the door with the existing deadbolt and provides access without the need for a physical exchange of keys. The system is managed remotely. Using BLE technology the AUGUST app can be used to send a virtual key that

will open the door at a specified time, providing access for a set period.

AUGUST (USA) 2. The Dimple Cylinder 941 lock system is composed of 32 pins set in five directions. The model has over 250 quadrillion (1015) possible key combinations. The keys to this high-strength cylindrical lock boast

intricate engraving and an individual design of three holes that determine how the key hangs on a key chain.

WEST CORPORATION (Japan) 3. The ultra-slim XS Quattro door fitting with integrated access control and card reader unites functional and contemporary design.

DORMA (Germany)

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DESIGN | AWARD 5 4

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4. The SMILE audio and video door system is equipped with a highresolution monitor and offers an intuitive interface based on an OSD menu. The product is available in a range of models with varying sizes of TFT screen.

FERMAX ELECTRONICA (Spain) 5. The B-web 96 00 is a high-tech and elegant time and access control system. The touch screen device is easy to use, compact and offers an attractive design. The B-web 96

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00 can be adapted to suit a specific building and provides an intuitive, client-oriented user interface.

KABA (Germany) 6. The Corlo switch series is made from high-quality glass and chrome surfaces. The products are composed of modules with a standard size of 71 mm and are equipped with sensor displays. The Corlo interface allows the user to turn devices on and off, regulate climate control and input permanent settings. Thanks to the

integrated motion sensors, devices turn on quickly even when in energysaving mode. Corlo operates using a solar panel, meaning it can be moved around with no need for power sockets.

Elsner Elektronik (Germany) 7. The Miluz line of modular switches and sockets is an innovative design for the mass market. These functional devices are available in various configurations and are easy to install and clean.

IF DESIGN AWARD |

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Schneider Electric (Brazil) 8. VELUX INTEGRA is a home automation system that provides an optimal climate, control of home devices and energy efficiency. The device is operated using fingerprint technology.

Automatic VELUX windows and blinds as well as devices from other manufacturers can be controlled remotely through the VELUX INTEGRA system. The system can also air out a room when overheated and imitate the presence

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of people in the house to deter burglars.

VELUX (Denmark) 9. The Reed light and climate control system comes with a sleek user panel and integrated temperature sensor. Its flexible design allows for installation on tables or in walls.

The four main buttons on the device control temperature and light level, while the LED indicator displays the temperature and the current heating or cooling mode.

Technology AS (Norway) 10. GATE is a glass door lock from Griffwerk. The model's silhouette, minimalist on the outside and hightech on the inside, is constructed as a podium for a door handle.

The magnetic latch ensures that GATE closes quietly and easily. The components are made from aluminium while the super-sleek body is made from stainless steel or copper.

Griffwerk (Germany)

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DESIGN | AWARD

11

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12 11. Rotella R8 sliding door fitting.

Dual clamps fix the glass door without any need for drilling while the load is distributed evenly thanks to the even clamping effect. The fixing screws are hidden beneath decorative magnetic inlays.

Griffwerk (Germany) 12. Isotile external cladding tiles reduce time for facade installation by half. Installation does not require the use of metal profiles, simplifying the process and reducing costs. Isotile

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creates an attractive exterior that stands the test of time, requiring little maintenance or repair.

VitrA Karo (Turkey) 13. ARM-S@NAV is the latest offering in facades with natural ventilation.

The design efficiently uses wind power to allow fresh air to flow into the building. The design is highly flexible and can be used in various types of facade structures.

Sankyo-Alumi (Japan)

14. Quick & Easy (Q&E) is a connector system developed for pipes. The ring stop edges seals joins, makes pipe installation faster and easier and optimises use of materials. During installation the ring and pipe are expanded using a power tool, but after installation the ring immediately shrinks to its original shape, with the force focused by the Q&E cross section. As a result, an eco-friendly, watertight connection is created in seconds.

Uponor Group (Finland)

IF DESIGN AWARD |

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15. The ITS 96 FL is an integrated door closer with EASY OPEN function. The device reduces the door's resistance, making the space accessible for people of any age, and prevents automatic closing when necessary.

The device is particularly relevant to high-traffic areas. The ITS 96 FL is connected to a smoke detector that automatically closes the door in the event of fire, while still allowing the door to be opened for escape.

DORMA (Germany)

16. Invisible neo is a series of concealed design hinges – an invisible but important detail in a contemporary interior. The hinges are easy to install and increase door manoeuvrability. The built-in height adjustment system means that the door is fixed securely and the hooking system ensures that the door can be positioned in the frame with ease.

Doors with invisible neo hinges can be fitted by a single person with no need for assistance. The metal cladding

enhances durability, accommodating doors with thicker panelling.

Argent Alu (Belgium) 17. The Dual Motion Window allows users to open both sides of the window with a single action. The mechanism is based on the integrated rail. The device is flexible, allowing users to open only one side of the window if desired.

LG Hausys (South Korea)

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DESIGN | TRENDS

Bright & BEAUTIFUL

Lighting Furniture Bathroom fixtures Handmade carpets

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3 1. The Cubit modular shelving system from Mymito (Germany) is made from MDF. 21 shapes, 8 sizes and a huge selection of colours. Its designers believe that modern living often requires temporary interior solutions, and for this Cubit is ideal.

2. Lamp collection from Darono Abihu (Portugal). The designer was inspired to create this range by the tropical abiu fruit, which is found only in the Amazon Rainforest. The curved

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form of the fruit is recreated using synthetic resin, while the shade is made from faux leather.

3. The joyous Chew collection from Simone Micheli of Adrenalina (Italy) demonstrates constant evolution and the symbiosis of architecture, sculpture and fashion.

4. Liuku is a pendant light from designer Maija Puoskari (Finland).

The lights are made up of two parts:

the glass shade and the wooden component from which the light hangs. By combining varied materials and selecting an unusual colour scheme, the designer has transformed a simple light into a quirky interior accessory.

5. This futuristic chair comes from Artifort (Netherlands). Its rounded and curved form resembles a mushroom, hence the name. The product frame is made from metal

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5 6

8 7 while polyurethane serves as the filler. The Mushroom chair can be upholstered in leather or fabric.

6. These handmade rugs from India form this striking collection from Safavieh. The use of purest New Zealand wool guarantees vibrant colours, while the addition of viscose makes the fibre structure soft and silky.

7. The Florence Sculptures collection

from ARTERIORS HOME comprises 5 vibrant pieces. Each one is made from a natural material – agate – ensuring that the size and colour is always unique.

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8. Mille-feuille is the French term for a multi-layered cake. It's clear why designer Emmanuelle Moureaux chose this as the name for her collection of storage units for Schönbuch (Germany). The collection is manufactured by hand from MDF.

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DESIGN | TRENDS

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�

A good designer will say: the right combination of clarity, simplicity and functionality will give a nice shell.

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10 9. The Wood furniture collection from Bandini is made from curved lacquered wood.

10. Carpets from Serge Lesage (France) showcase original designs and diverse colour schemes. The MASK range resembles an artist's palette for landscape painting.

11. The amazing capabilities and potential of 3D printing have long

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9 made it one of the most attractive technologies in product design.

Daniel Hilldrup used it to create the TRIG lampshade, which is composed of numerous triangular components similar to the multi-coloured facets of a kaleidoscope.

12. Designs with simple forms but impeccable quality – that's the Lago way. Designers often say that Lago furniture is like Lego for adults –

all of the company's products are modular as standard. The variety and interchangeability of the structures gives each individual the ability to create their own design.

13. For years Flaminia Monowash sanitary ware has delighted customers with its superb quality and durability.

Its designs are both highly original and wholly intuitive. Bathroom fixtures made from sanitary ceramic.

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14 15 14. Designer Cenk Kara – creator of the Lemon Sink range of citrus sinks for kitchen and bathroom – is a huge fan of fruit. She believes that it's important to start each day in the right frame of mind, which is why she created these cheerful fixtures.

15. MP Parquet Company (Italy) presents MOSAICO WOOD – a bold, striped floor design by Senza Etichetta that mimics a fabric

pattern. The herringbone structure resembles woven fabric, creating a rug-like appearance.

16. Aquiform In Rest from designer Daniel Hilldrup mimics the frozen form of agitated water in a constrained space. The model is printed using the transparent material Object VeroClear, polished and finally painted with two-pack polyurethane paint.

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DESIGN | TRENDS

LET’S

Colour

Collections of children's bathroom fixtures, ceramic tiles, mixers and wallpapers

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2 1. Gamma Due (Italy) proudly presents its latest ceramic tile collection Hello Kitty, the global brand for kids and teens. This bright and bold collection includes both traditional and brand new depictions of the famous character.

2. The Bagnocucciolo® Standard

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mixer from Ponte Giulio (Italy) offers an ideal solution for schools, nurseries, cafés and restaurants where fun, bold interior accessories are essential.

3. The Bagnocucciolo collection from Ponte Giulio (Italy) transforms conventional toilet facilities into a zone made just for kids, including

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6 miniature ceramic fixtures (basins, bidets and toilets) and accessories.

4. The DISNEY ceramic tile collection from Spanish factory Azteca is a wonderful gift for little boys who dream of being racing car drivers, little girls who are princesses at heart, and even their parents, who have grown up

with these animated classics.

5. Laufen offers the Florakids range of bathroom fixtures designed with kids in mind. Kids will surely love the Florakids washstands and toilets with their cheery red and green colour scheme selected specially by designer Andreas Dimitriadis.

6. York Collections – Disney Vol. II is a continuation of the children's wallpaper range from York Wallcoverings. The wallpapers, borders, panels, stickers and decor elements are printed on SureStrip – eco-friendly prepasted paper that ensures simple installation.

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Fairy Castle collection

DESIGN | TRENDS

7. The new Abracazoo children's collection of wallpapers and textiles from Little Sanderson (UK) available at MANDERS stores includes 11 wallpapers, 9 printed fabrics, one voile and three embroidered designs.

The collection’s designers strove to see the world as a child sees it, which is why the resulting pieces are bright and educational, ready to inspire little minds. The palette embraces all the colours of the rainbow and also includes pastel ice-cream tones. www.sanderson-uk.com

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8. Founded in 1957, the V33 Group is a market leader in protective and decorative products for wood (stains, treatments and varnishes) and a major producer of paints for household consumers. The group has operated in Russia for over 10 years and offers its high-quality products under the V33 and LibĂŠron brands. www.v33.ru/kampania 9. Barausse (Italy) presents four new painted wood doors with a moulded design: BIT, EAN, GEMMA, OTTAGONO. Designed by architect Massimo Belunatto, the models are available in

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11 white and all shades in the RAL colour chart.

These designs were inspired by a desire to create something new and fresh that would integrate effortlessly into contemporary interiors. www.barausse.com 10. Petergof studio produces and installs decorative mouldings made from three types of plaster: traditional gypsum plaster, water-repelling products for rooms with increased moisture and enhanced-strength facade items with water-repelling

properties. The studio also handles artistic projects including plasterwork painting, gilding and patinas, artistic illusions, artistic heraldry, frescoes and decorative painting. www.lepnina.ru 11. The Little Greene (UK) paint range offers a rich colour palette and a wide selection of textures: gloss, matt, semimatt and satin. Whatever the surface, Little Greene has the right paint for your perfect finish, including acrylics, oils, emulsions and primers. Paint for floors, walls, ceilings, joinery, wet rooms,

exteriors, wood or metal – Little Greene products always offer the highest quality. www.manders.ru

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DECOR | TRENDS

Festive Interior

Creative and functional interiors for the festive season

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1. This cuckoo clock can be silenced at night and provides 8 days of movement before needing winding.

Manufactured by Rombach Haas (Germany).

4. “Living” decorations – Hanging Glass Terrarium bio bubble from СВ2 (USA). Can be used as an evocative hanging vase for plants or to decorate a room interior.

2. HotBox bio-ethanol fireplace, logs made from heat-resistant ceramic, Planika (Poland).

5. Book lovers will adore this treeshaped shelving unit created by designer Ole Jensen for Normann (Denmark). The evergreen tree has been painted the colour of spring leaves. Its functional design and

3. Woody1 steel log holder, Siskô Design (France).

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�

Useless things! They're what give the greatest warmth!

Erich Maria Remarque

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playful look make it perfect for both a child's playroom and spaces for grown-ups.

Architects Anna Sazhinova and Konstantin Lagutin, Archpole (Russia).

6. This Fashionista Christmas Tree is a quirky festive decoration from Hammacher Schlemmer (USA).

8. Knitted furniture from ClaireAnne O'Brien (Ireland) – a great idea for decorating a room. Yarn or other soft materials can be used to quickly update an interior in time for Christmas.

7. These tree partitions are available in various colours and can serve as both interior decoration and a multifunctional piece of furniture.

9. Granny natural wool knit lamp with

wooden base, CASAMANIA (Italy).

10.

Decorative cotton fabric, Kuusikossa collection, Marimekko (Finland).

11. Designer Myra Klose under the MYK brand (Germany) fashions witty accessories and furniture from hundreds of pom-poms. Each ball is hand made from high-quality, pure wool.

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DECOR | TRENDS

SNOW

& Ice

1. When creating the Semi-Wrinkle Washi light, Japanese studio Nendo used embossed and smooth washi paper, a unique style of paper invented in Japan. This weightless collection boasts a quirky appearance and surprising durability as a result of the special soaking technique used.

2. Colour, simplicity and transparency are the hallmarks of Moooi lights.

According to the collection's creator – designer Marcel Wanders – their recognisable “bell” shape symbolises

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Designer lighting and winter-themed accessories

the joy and optimism of Christmas and the New Year.

Varying in shape, the sparkling crystals mimic exquisite spikes of ice.

3. Ice Cubes from Areen Design is a modular floor lamp made up of icelike blocks. Each cube in the column is made by hand from crystal and the lamp is available in various colours from transparent to blue or turquoise.

5. USB Snowbot is a robotic snowman that connects to your computer via USB. Instead of coals for eyes, he is equipped with an LED scanner that glows red or blue. You can also control the scanner movement speed and the volume of the accompanying sound.

4. Developed by Tord Boontje for Swarovski, this pendant light is encrusted with crystals creating the appearance of a frozen branch.

6. These glowing baubles from the UK run on normal batteries and are safe for use as tree ornaments or as

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These collections from world-famous designers have been created specially for the festive season and will bring comfort, warmth and Christmas spirit to any interior.

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5 7 a child's night light. The illuminated shapes inside each glass bauble vary – moon, star, angel or snowflake. The baubles are operated using a small remote control.

7. The Bungalow lights from Australian design studio Autumn are made of waterproof silicone. The snowy cottages create a fairytale winter village, softly illuminated to enhance the enchanting scene.

8. Architect Teresa Sapey developed

8 her creative reinterpretation of the Christmas tree CHRISMY for VONDOM (Spain). The designer tree creates a real fairytale feel, providing durability and colour change functionality.

9. The Fedor standard-lamp is a piece of New Year's furniture from designer Olesya Smirnova, who has coordinated the collection for the Christmas and New Year festivities. This is why “Fedor” is festooned with a stylish, vibrant trapper hat and wooden skis.

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DESIGN | DESIGNERS

Setsu & Shinobu Ito Looking at Nature

S

etsu and Shinobu Ito are two halves of one of the most famous and fascinating partnerships in the world of contemporary design. Born and raised in Japan, in 1995 they opened their studio I.T.O. design in Milan, establishing a unique style that combines Japanese functionalism with Italian refinement. Their work has garnered numerous awards, including the Young & Design Award 1999, Good Design Award 2001, Toyama Product Design Award 2001, ADI Design Index 2001 and 2005 and the Compasso d’Oro Award 2011. Their designs can be found in permanent exhibitions at the Triennale Design Museum in Milan and the International Design Museum in Munich.

At CERSAIE 2014, DG Mosaic Design presented the innovative Monstera installation in collaboration with Setsu and Shinobu Ito, which used the world's smallest rectangular glass mosaic tiles – TILLA. The focus of the project was the mosaic representation of the formidably named Monstera plant. This symbiosis of natural beauty and technological capabilities, in which the colourful mosaic is the principal 3D element, was presented accompanied by unique lighting effects.

“The desire to look at nature, to get up close to it and feel it around you is hard-wired into practically every human being,” say Setsu and Shinobu.

“In Japan, living in harmony with nature has been the norm since time immemorial, but now this connection is growing weaker and weaker as natural materials are shunned in favour of man-made ones. We wanted to do something to help people feel this life-affirming closeness to nature once more.”

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Pietro Gaeta

Transferable Paintings

T

he product of recent technological advances, Affreschi decorative wall coverings for Antoniolupi were inspired by Michelangelo's David. Before beginning the project, designer Pietro Gaeta spent several years studying different types of surfaces and bathroom decor. The collection includes various designs such as stripes, waves, Damask motifs, Renaissance patterns, numbers and words.

The intricate digitally-designed patterns contain dye pigments that are transferred to wall or ceiling surfaces using a special water-based substance soaked into the paper. After 30 minutes, the pigments are deeply absorbed into the surface and the paper can be removed. The Affreschi project is also unique in that its application is not limited to concrete surfaces: plasterboard, brickwork, plasterwork or rough cement can easily be decorated with a unique design. This new product offers a blend of the classical and the futuristic that is environmentally friendly, free from chemical glues and does not modify the features of the surfaces to which it is applied.

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DESIGN | DESIGNERS

Sandro Santantonio Pure Talent

I

ndustrial designer Sandro Santantonio is a graduate of the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera, where as a student he began working with famous designers such as Roberto Semprini, Guglielmo Berchicci, Prospero Rasulo, Giuseppe Viganò and Azzolini Tinuper.

After achieving success and recognition Santantonio founded his own design firm in 2004 — Sandro Santantonio Design. Today the diverse team at SSD works on projects spanning architecture, interiors, industrial and graphic design and fashion.

Sandro Santantonio: “The team is the perfect synthesis of various areas of contemporary design, with a particular focus on researching trends and studying innovative materials and new technologies in industry. Combining concepts and technical know-how is the cornerstone of our philosophy, creating our consistently original and captivating signature style.”

In his collaboration with leading manufacturers of furniture, lighting, interior decor and fashion accessories, Santantonio has created unique contemporary design objects. His works have won numerous design awards and have been shown at prestigious exhibitions in Italy, Switzerland, Germany, the UK, France, Monaco, the USA, Russia, India,

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China and Japan.

The designer created a line of soft furnishings for the Italian firm GIOVANNETTI, mixing bold hues with unusual forms. The individual approach taken for the creation of each piece is echoed in the company's slogan: “Made with love”.

His unique, stylish lights for the Axo Light brand make up the MUSE collection. The clear inspiration for this project came from wild flowers, sea shells, clouds, sunflowers and other wildlife elements.

The floral motif is also reflected in the Arum floor lamp for Lucente.

This remarkable light in white and rich red resembles a trumpet lily.

The construction is composed of a matt-white metal base and special removable fabric. This elegant and evocative accessory was the centre of attention at this year's iSaloni exhibition in Milan.

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Simplicity is a philosophy that can be applied to everything in life

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DESIGN | DESIGNERS

Lorenzo Palmeri

Renaissance Man

М

ilanese sculptor, designer and musician Lorenzo Palmeri enjoys equal success in several spheres at once: he works on architectural projects, dedicates much of his time to design and writes music for theatrical productions and films. In addition to this, he often takes part in personal and group exhibitions. His achievements have been recognised with a number of international awards including the ADI Design Index and Good Design Award.

One of his projects from 2014 is Double Face. In conjunction with R & D Stone Italiana the designer created a new two-sided material using a patented production process. What's revolutionary about this material is the ability to use both sides of the tile as well as the slab edge, which shows the uneven border between the two colours. This year Palmeri also launched the Erbamatta wallpaper collection for Jannelli&Volpi.

Lorenzo Palmeri: “These items have been created as part of a limited series. The Erbamatta concept is intended as a sort of metaphormanifesto. Erbe matte or ‘weeds’ grow even on concrete, train tracks and pavements. They spread freely, in an unpredictable way, carried by the wind.”

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Hisakazu Shimizu Industrial Art

H

isakazu Shimizu is famed as a talented industrial designer with a wealth of experience in developing high-tech products such as copy machines and cameras. The chief designer behind the IXUS compact camera series from Canon, Shimizu has achieved great success both professionally and creatively, as indicated by his numerous awards.

Hisakazu Shimizu: “When I was studying art and design in school, I began to understand that there were lots of things that could be ‘made with design’, and over time my interest in industrial design only grew.”

Shimizu has worked at Canon since 1989, but 9 years ago he also set up his own studio, S&O Design, with his business partner Eizo Okada.

Exclusive art collections of furniture, lights and accessories from the studio’s designers are intended for people who appreciate unconventional solutions and unusual objects.

One of the studio’s latest projects was the FRUITS range of imaginative accessories. The lights, clocks and other accessories boast retrofit shapes and colours. Another range of art objects – the precise, stylised Mound Stool seats – were designed for Kanaya. The seats are cast from bronze and decorated in bright colours. At S&O Design, only traditional methods are used and many products are made by hand.

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| EVENTS

Harry Seidler: Architecture, Art and Collaborative Design 04.10.2012 - 15.01.2015 Sydney, Australia “Architecture, Art and Collaborative Design” is a travelling exhibition celebrating the ninetieth anniversary of the birth of Harry Seidler.

The exhibition comprises 15 projects – five houses and five towers in Sydney and five major commissions beyond Sydney.

Architect@Work Stuttgart 2014 – Exhibition of Innovations in Architecture and Design 03–04.12.2014 Stuttgart, Germany This exhibition is aimed at architects and interior designers as well as representatives of engineering firms and other companies working in construction and architecture. An exclusive selection of new products is customarily on display at exhibitor stands.

The exhibition focuses on exciting innovations and cutting-edge technologies.

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Alvar Aalto.

SECOND NATURE 27.09–01.03.2015 Weil am Rhein, Germany Vitra Design Museum presents a retrospective exhibition exploring the work of the great architect and designer Alvar Aalto. His organic style of design and architecture once again captivates and provokes with its sculpturesque forms, revealing Aalto's artistic credo through his most famous works.

VIII International Congress on Wooden Construction 03-05.12.2014 St. Petersburg, Russia Each year construction industry experts and leaders gather at the International Congress on Wooden Construction.

The Innovations exhibition will be held as part of the congress, where companies present their achievements and best innovations.

Moscow Urban Forum 2014 11-13.12.2014 Moscow, Russia The main theme of this year's Forum is relevant for all major cities across the globe. “Drivers” are the catalysts of growth and development in cities and are the current focus of the international urban community. This year a host of new research will be presented to the general public, including the international “Global Cities” study and the Moscow-based “Master Plan” and “New Moscow” studies.

Lighting Japan 2015 14–16.01.2015 Tokyo, Japan The international Lighting Japan exhibition is dedicated to the application of LED and OLED technology. These light sources possess great potential for solving issues such as energy conservation, protecting the environment and sustainability. Innovative lighting technologies and products, new lighting materials and equipment will be on display at the exhibition.

BAU 2015 World Trade Fair for Architecture, Materials and Systems 19–24.01.2015 Munich, Germany The BAU trade fair demonstrates solutions for sustainable and barrier-free construction, capital and cosmetic renovation and building modernisation. The trade fair broadly covers technologies that will define the principles of architecture and urban design in the years to come.

Milano Unica (Spring) 2015 Italian International Textile Exhibition 04–06.02.2015 Milan, Italy Twice a year textile design experts present their newest products in Milan. The Milano Unica brand encompasses 4 prestigious exhibitions: Ideabiella, Ideacomo, Moda In, Shirt Avenue and over 450 manufacturers. Products of the highest quality will be on show here, reflecting the latest colour trends and highlighting the work of up and coming designers. Daring design ideas will be displayed in the Trend Area.

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